How Volunteering Can Benefit Your Career and Your Community
Whether you’re finishing your degree or diploma, or you’re a recent grad, if you’re looking for ways to build on your work experience this summer, look no further than volunteering in your community.
Some of you might sigh deeply at the idea of working for free (especially if you’ve already put in your hours at an internship) however, volunteering has a lot of great benefits for both your career and your community.
Don’t believe us? Keep reading for our top reasons on how volunteering can help boost your career and lift up those in need!
Discover your interests and define your career goals
If you’re unsure of your career direction, or perhaps don’t have much work experience, volunteering can give you a taste of the different aspects of work without committing to just one job.
Volunteering at non-profit organizations can help you realize whether you want to work for a large company or a small grassroots company, whether you like working with companies that are working towards the greater good, and in general, helps you learn about your own work style and ethic.
As a volunteer, you’ll soon discover whether or not you like working independently or with a team, whether you’re suited for leadership, and whether you enjoy being hands-on in the field or prefer the administrative side of things.
All of these discoveries are extremely valuable in helping you determine your career goals.
Broaden your horizons and your network
If you’re not a huge fan of the formality of networking events and how awkward it can be, give volunteering a try!
Volunteering can help broaden your horizons, no matter if you’re an extrovert or introvert. Working with different non-profit organizations allows you to meet a variety of people from all walks of life that you can learn from and also network with in a relaxed and informal environment.
Other volunteers are likely going to be friendly, seeing as they’re there to help others, and are probably open to meeting new people as well. Take this opportunity to befriend people you wouldn’t normally meet, because you never know who might become a life-long friend, or who might refer you to a future employer.
Looks great on your resume
Your newly developed and honed skills will become incredibly handy when it’s time to revise your resume.
Not only will your resume boast your education and professional skills, but your personal experience of volunteering shows potential employers you care about your community, and are committed to working towards a collective goal.
Volunteering is also an excellent resume booster for those who are still in school or recent grads without much professional experience.
Strengthens community ties and gives back to the community
Non-profit organizations thrive with help from the community, and are always looking for volunteers. Giving back feels good for the soul, because helping out with even the smallest task can make a huge difference in the lives of people, animals, and organizations in need.
Whether you choose an organization that aligns with a cause close to your heart, or one that supports the people in your community, you’ll be connecting with others who share similar values, which is a beautiful thing.
The friendships, connections, and impact you make while volunteering can be joyful, fulfilling, and purposeful.
Do you need any more convincing that volunteering is wonderful and life-changing? Not only are you doing something positive with your time, but you’re also building valuable skills and meaningful relationships that can greatly boost your career and job search.
Keep these benefits in mind when you’re feeling restless and bored this summer. Time to roll up your sleeves, get out there, and make a difference!
